Department of Social Work Undergraduate Program. Student Handbook P a g e

Transcription

1 Department of Social Work Undergraduate Program Student Handbook P a g e

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE Welcome Faculty List... 4 Introduction... 5 Mission Statements... 5 Definition of Generalist Practice... 6 Undergraduate Program Goals... 6 Social Work Competencies Requirements for the Undergraduate Social Work Major Prerequisite Requirements Professional Social Work Content Area Requirements Field Instruction Senior Year Service Learning Electives Social Work Courses Part-time Program Full-Time Plan of Study Suggested Part-time Plan of Study Availability During Business Hours for Field Placement Program Policies The Social Work Program Admission and Continuance Process Standards for Evaluating Academic Performance Use of Electronic Devices in the Classroom Policies and Procedures for Review of Academic Performance & Academic Reviews Eligibility for Field Placement Degree Completion Timeline Policy Readmission/Reapplication Student Advisement Student Professional Conduct Student Rights and Responsibilities Academic Integrity Non-Discrimination Policy Social Media Student and Faculty Concerns Assessment Attendance Students with Disabilities Grading Student Grade Appeals Title IX Policy P a g e

3 More Program Information Student Participation in the Undergraduate Program The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Student Records Student Social Work Organization Honor Societies Student Awards Al Landy Award Diane Dwyer Distinguished Service/Leadership Award Departmental Scholar Marghi Rich Award Class of 1998 Michael O Connor Memorial Award School of Education and Human Services Award Student Leadership Award President s Citation Outstanding Adult Student Appendices: Appendix A: Constitution of the Student Social Work Organization Appendix B: Constitution Alpha Psi Chapter of Phi Alpha Honor Society By-Laws of Alpha Psi Chapter of Phi Alpha Honor Society Application for Membership in Alpha Psi Chapter of the Phi Alpha Honor Society Appendix C: By-Laws of the Undergraduate Social Work Program Appendix D: NASW Code of Ethics Appendix E: The Federation of International Social Work Code of Ethics Appendix F: CSWE Accreditation Standards P a g e

4 DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL W O RK Welcome Welcome to the undergraduate social work program of The College at Brockport, State University of New York. We are excited that you have selected our Program to obtain your Baccalaureate degree and look forward to working in partnership with you during your course of study. This Handbook is designed to familiarize you with important Program policies, procedures, resources, and general information. We hope you will refer to this handbook for information about the Undergraduate Social Work Program not only during the orientation period, but also throughout your entire course of study. More detailed information about field education referred to in the Student Handbook may be found in the Field Education Manual. It is our hope and vision that your years of study with us will be stimulating, exciting, challenging, and filled with both personal and professional growth. The faculty and staff of the Program stand ready to assist you as needed. We look forward to sharing this wonderful journey of collaborative social work education with you! The Faculty and Staff of the Undergraduate Social Work Program Fall 2015 Albert Brown Building 350 New Campus Drive Brockport, NY Phone Fax P a g e

5 SOCIAL WORK DEPARTMENT FACULTY & STAFF Name/ Full time Faculty Phone # Office # Debra Fromm Faria, Chairperson AWB 170 dffaria@brockport.edu MetroCenter Pamela Viggiani, Program Director AWB 173 pviggian@brockport.edu MetroCenter 268 Julie, Hunt, Department Secretary AWB 176 jhunt@brockport.edu Carmen Aponte AWB 174 caponte@brockport.edu Nicole Cesnales AWB 179 ncesnale@brockport.edu Jason Dauenhauer AWB 177 jdauenha@brockport.edu Kristin Heffernan AWB 175 kheffern@brockport.edu Barbara Kasper AWB 172 berthabk@aol.com Athena Kolbe AWB 181 akolbe@brockport.edu Associate Faculty Joe Evers AWB 152 jfevers@aol.com Melissa Sydor AWB 152 melsk@me.com 4 P a g e

6 Introduction The Department of Social Work, established on the Brockport campus in 1971, is part of the School of Education and Human Services. The department offers an undergraduate major in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The CSWE accredited status of the undergraduate program provides an opportunity for students to apply for advanced standing in many graduate social work programs, thereby completing the MSW degree in one full year. The Department also offers an accredited Master s Degree in Social Work in collaboration with Nazareth College through the CSWE accredited Greater Rochester Collaborative MSW Program.. These academic programs are administered without discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, creed, ethnic or national origin, handicap, political or sexual orientation, or marital status. The Department of Social Work subscribes to the following affirmative action policy regarding students and employees: 1. Prohibits discrimination in decisions regarding students, in offering employment opportunities and in the selection of employees. 2. Forbids distinctions made on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital status, and physical disability, where such distinctions discourage the initial selection of students and employees from a culturally diverse group, or affect their treatment as members of the college community. 3. With reference to faculty and staff, specific conduct of recruitment, initial appointment, promotions, performance evaluations, tenure awards, consideration of salary and wages, sabbaticals and other leaves, and terminations, shall be free from discrimination. Discriminatory acts shall be prohibited in the conduct of departmental services and benefits for students that affect admission, continuance in program, access to courses and academic support, assignment of grades, and faculty advisement. Social Work Department Mission The department of social work is committed to excellence in preparing ethical and competent professional social workers who foster the well-being of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Through teaching, service, and scholarship, the department promotes civic engagement in diverse societies. Social Work Undergraduate Program Mission Firmly grounded in the liberal arts tradition and informed by the person-in-environment and global perspectives, the undergraduate social work program at the College at Brockport, State University of New York, is committed to the promotion of human rights, social, economic, and environmental justice, and the elimination of poverty and oppression. Through teaching, service, and scholarship, we strive to prepare competent, self-aware, ethical generalist social workers for evidence-based practice with diverse populations, advocating for the well-being of all people in our shared global community. 5 P a g e

7 Definition of Generalist Practice Generalist social work practice refers to the knowledge base, professional values, and practice skills needed for the social work practitioner to intervene using a multi-level approach to assessment and intervention. It involves working in partnership with the client system to frame problems in a manner that assists the client system to meet goals. It seeks to identify and strengthen the maximum potential in individuals, groups, organizations, and communities and is committed to understanding and respecting the unique context of the client system and responding to issues of human diversity. The generalist social worker is able to use the framework and ethical guidelines of the NASW and IFSW codes of ethics with client systems and to promote social and economic justice. The generalist practitioner is able to use critical thinking and research informed practice to identify and intervene in a manner that strengthens the client system. Undergraduate Program Goals The faculty assigned to the undergraduate program will: 1. Create a challenging educational environment that engages students in active learning and facilitates the acquisition of professional social work knowledge, values, and skills. 2. Provide a rich array of community engagement opportunities that allow students to connect with their community in the promotion of justice. 3. Encourage students to engage in ongoing critical self-reflection resulting in an understanding of both their place in the global community and their responsibility to the well-being of that global community. 4. Educate competent generalist level social workers prepared for employment and graduate study. Competencies All graduates of the undergraduate program at The College at Brockport, State University of New York are expected to demonstrate the following competencies: Competency 1 Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior Social workers understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards, as well as relevant laws and regulations that may impact practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Social workers understand frameworks of ethical decision-making and how to apply principles of critical thinking to those frameworks in practice, research, and policy arenas. Social workers recognize personal values and the distinction between personal and professional values. They also understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions influence their professional judgment and behavior. Social workers understand the profession s history, its mission, and the roles and responsibilities of the profession. Social Workers also understand the role of other professions when engaged in interprofessional teams. Social workers recognize the importance of life-long learning and are committed to continually updating their skills to ensure they are relevant and effective. 6 P a g e

8 Social workers also understand emerging forms of technology and the ethical use of technology in social work practice. Social workers: make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and regulations, models for ethical decision-making, ethical conduct of research, and additional codes of ethics as appropriate to context; use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in practice situations; demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior; appearance; and oral, written, and electronic communication; use technology ethically and appropriately to facilitate practice outcomes; and use supervision and consultation to guide professional judgment and behavior. Competency 2 Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice Social workers understand how diversity and difference characterize and shape the human experience and are critical to the formation of identity. The dimensions of diversity are understood as the intersectionality of multiple factors including but not limited to age, class, color, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration status, marital status, political ideology, race, religion/spirituality, sex, sexual orientation, and tribal sovereign status. Social workers understand that, as a consequence of difference, a person s life experiences may include oppression, poverty, marginalization, and alienation as well as privilege, power, and acclaim. Social workers also understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and recognize the extent to which a culture s structures and values, including social, economic, political, and cultural exclusions, may oppress, marginalize, alienate, or create privilege and power. Social workers: apply and communicate understanding of the importance of diversity and difference in shaping life experiences in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels; present themselves as learners and engage clients and constituencies as experts of their own experiences; and apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse clients and constituencies. Competency 3 Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice Social workers understand that every person regardless of position in society has fundamental human rights such as freedom, safety, privacy, an adequate standard of living, health care, and education. Social workers understand the global interconnections of oppression and human rights violations, and are knowledgeable about theories of human need and social justice and strategies to promote social and economic justice and human rights. Social workers understand strategies designed to eliminate oppressive structural barriers to ensure that social goods, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably and that civil, political, environmental, economic, social, and cultural human rights are protected. Social workers: apply their understanding of social, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for human rights at the individual and system levels; and engage in practices that advance social, economic, and environmental justice. Competency 4 Engage In Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice 7 P a g e

9 Social workers understand quantitative and qualitative research methods and their respective roles in advancing a science of social work and in evaluating their practice. Social workers know the principles of logic, scientific inquiry, and culturally informed and ethical approaches to building knowledge. Social workers understand that evidence that informs practice derives from multi-disciplinary sources and multiple ways of knowing. They also understand the processes for translating research findings into effective practice. Social workers: use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research; apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and qualitative research methods and research findings; and use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery 8 P a g e

10 Competency 5 Engage in Policy Practice Social workers understand that human rights and social justice, as well as social welfare and services, are mediated by policy and its implementation at the federal, state, and local levels. Social workers understand the history and current structures of social policies and services, the role of policy in service delivery, and the role of practice in policy development. Social workers understand their role in policy development and implementation within their practice settings at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels and they actively engage in policy practice to effect change within those settings. Social workers recognize and understand the historical, social, cultural, economic, organizational, environmental, and global influences that affect social policy. They are also knowledgeable about policy formulation, analysis, implementation, and evaluation. Social workers: Identify social policy at the local, state, and federal level that impacts well-being, service delivery, and access to social services; assess how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery of and access to social services; apply critical thinking to analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice. Competency 6 Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Social workers understand that engagement is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers value the importance of human relationships. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to facilitate engagement with clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand strategies to engage diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness. Social workers understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions may impact their ability to effectively engage with diverse clients and constituencies. Social workers value principles of relationship-building and interprofessional collaboration to facilitate engagement with clients, constituencies, and other professionals as appropriate. Social workers: apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks to engage with clients and constituencies; and use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage diverse clients and constituencies. Competency 7 Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Social workers understand that assessment is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in the assessment of diverse clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand methods of assessment with diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness. Social workers recognize the implications of the larger practice context in the assessment process and value the importance of interprofessional collaboration in this process. 9 P a g e

11 Social workers understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making. Social workers: collect and organize data, and apply critical thinking to interpret information from clients and constituencies; apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and constituencies; develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives based on the critical assessment of strengths, needs, and challenges within clients and constituencies; and select appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and values and preferences of clients and constituencies. Competency 8 Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Social workers understand that intervention is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers are knowledgeable about evidence-informed interventions to achieve the goals of clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to effectively intervene with clients and constituencies. Social workers understand methods of identifying, analyzing and implementing evidence-informed interventions to achieve client and constituency goals. Social workers value the importance of interprofessional teamwork and communication in interventions, recognizing that beneficial outcomes may require interdisciplinary, interprofessional, and interorganizational collaboration. Social workers: critically choose and implement interventions to achieve practice goals and enhance capacities of clients and constituencies; apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in interventions with clients and constituencies; use inter-professional collaboration as appropriate to achieve beneficial practice outcomes; negotiate, mediate, and advocate with and on behalf of diverse clients and constituencies; and facilitate effective transitions and endings that advance mutually agreed-on goals. Competency 9 Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities Social workers understand that evaluation is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Social workers recognize the importance of evaluating processes and outcomes to advance practice, policy, and service delivery effectiveness. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in evaluating outcomes. Social workers understand qualitative and quantitative methods for evaluating outcomes and practice effectiveness. Social workers: 10 P a g e

12 select and use appropriate methods for evaluation of outcomes; apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the evaluation of outcomes; critically analyze, monitor, and evaluate intervention and program processes and outcomes; and apply evaluation findings to improve practice effectiveness at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Requirements for the Undergraduate Social Work Major This major consists of professional courses, electives, and practicum experiences designed to prepare professional social work practitioners for skilled generalist practice at the baccalaureate level. Prerequisite Requirements (12 Credits) The prerequisite requirements must be completed before entering the Social Work major. The prerequisite requirements may be completed at Brockport or equivalent courses transferred in from other colleges/ universities. The prerequisite courses may be used to fulfill general education requirements of the College. Students must get a C or higher in their prerequisite course 1. SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology (3 cr.) 2. PSH 110 Principles of Psychology (3 cr.) 3. BIO 281 Elements of Human Biology (3 cr.) or BIO 221 BIO 285 Survey of Anatomy and Physiology (4 cr.) or Biology of Aging 1. SOC 200 Social Statistics (3 cr.) or PSH 202 MTH 243 Introductory Stat. (3 cr.) or Elementary Statistics (3 cr.) Professional Social Work Content Area Requirements (42 Credits) 1. Social Welfare Policy and Services (9 credits) SWO 311 SWO 322 SWO 411 Human Service/Social Policy (3 cr.) Social and Economic Justice (3 cr.) Human Service Policy Analysis (3 cr.) 11 P a g e

13 2. Research (3 credits) SWO 310 Social Work Research Methods (3 cr.) 3. Human Behavior and Social Environment (9 credits) SWO 301 HBSE I (3 cr.) SWO 302 HBSE II (3 cr.) SWO 321 Human Diversity (3 cr.) 4. Social Work Practice (9 credits) SWO 341 SWO 342 SWO 441 Social Work Methods I (3 cr.) Social Work Methods II (3 cr.) Social Work Methods III (3 cr.) 5. Field Practicum (12 credits) Concurrent Placement Two Semesters Fall: SWO 451 Field Instruction I (5 cr.) SWO 453 Seminar in Field Instruction I (1 cr.) Spring: SWO 455 Field Instruction II (5 cr.) SWO 457 Seminar in Field Instruction II (1 cr.) OR Block Placement -- One Semester SWO 454 Field Instruction (10 cr.) SWO 456 Seminar in Field Instruction (2 cr.) AND Field Practicum- Senior Year Either a block (one semester) or concurrent (two semesters) field placement of 440 clock hours is required in the senior year. Concurrent internships are two days a week throughout fall and spring semesters, while block internships are four full days a week for one semester. Block internships are available only on a selected basis to students who make special application. The Field Director, who makes every effort to match field sites to the capacities and professional interests of students, arranges field placements. Internships for senior students cover a wide range of options in services to children, youth, adults and older citizens and in a variety of service settings. Agency field instructors, all qualified professionals, are committed to providing quality field instruction to student interns. They work closely with liaison faculty members who regularly visit field placement agencies. Other ties between the agencies and the social work program include field instructor participation in program committees, and regularly scheduled meetings at the College. In addition field instructors may be guest speakers in social work courses. For a comprehensive description of the Field Instruction program, see the Field Manual 12 P a g e

14 Service Learning Social work students will be involved in service learning projects during their course of study in the program. These will require the student to spend time in social service agencies or the community, interacting with clients and staff or community members about issues crucial to social work practice. This learning will simultaneously offer real service to the community-based agency or project. Electives Electives included in the course of study may be either courses outside of the undergraduate program in areas of the student s own choice or they may be elective courses offered in the undergraduate program. Brockport social work electives include: SWO 221: Contemporary Social Work SWO 379: People With Disabilities: Issues, Legislation, Intervention SWO 475: Women s Lives SWO 476/576: Aging Issues in America SWO 477/577 Perspectives on Older Adults and the Aging Family SWO 481: Social Problems in the Global Community SWO 485: Practice with Sexual Minority Communities SWO 492 Special Topics SWO 497: Fall Prevention and Older Adults SWO 499: Independent Study Electives are offered on a fairly regular basis and are designated as liberal arts courses in determining course credit distribution for graduation. The total number of social work credit hours for the major is 54 or 55, including prerequisites and co-requisites. Elective courses are supplemental to credit hour requirements in the major. However, no more than 54 credit hours may be taken in the social work discipline. (i.e., courses with SWO prefix) Social Work Courses SWO 301 Human Behavior/Social Environment I (A,W,Y). Open only to majors. Provides a social work perspective on knowledge and theory related to the human life cycle. Studies the lifespan development of human beings in the context of their emotional, physical, intellectual, and social needs. 3 Cr. Fall. SWO 302 Human Behavior/Social Environment II (A). Open only to majors. Applies systems theories to collective human functioning, specifically the interaction of the individual and the family with organizations, neighborhoods as well as regional, state and national communities. This course integrates knowledge from the social, behavioral and human biological sciences to provide a comprehensive theoretical view of human development, change and growth as people and environments interact and influence each other. This is the knowledge base for the multilevel social work assessments, interventions, prevention and social policy activities. 3 Cr. Spring. SWO 310 Social Work Research Methods (A). Prerequisite: GEP 150 and SOC 200 or PSH 202 or MTH 243 or ECN 204. Open only to majors. Covers research methods applied to social work 13 P a g e

15 practice and human services. Includes research methods, designs, and basic data interpretation; and development of computer skills through data input and data analysis. Emphasizes practice effectiveness and program evaluation. 3 Cr. Spring. SWO 311 Human Service Systems/Social Policy (A). Prerequisite: Open only to majors. Explores the role of the social worker in policy development and implementation. The course provides students with a basic understanding of the policy process, information on major social welfare policies, social welfare history, economic factors and political contexts, and how to advocate for social, political, and policy changes that address human needs and ameliorate social problems. 3 Cr. Spring. SWO 321 Human Diversity (A). Identifies areas of misinformation that perpetuate exclusion of subcultural groups from mainstream opportunities; differentiates covert acts, institutional policies, and ideologies that foster exclusion of culturally diverse groups; and compares such groups to mainstream American culture. Recognizes and deals with students personal feelings regarding a range of minority groups and issues as these negatively or positively affect the provision of service. 3 Cr. SWO 322 Social and Economic Justice (A). This course introduces students to social and economic justice issues in the United States and internationally. Specific attention will be given to inequality arising from race, class, gender, and age. Students will examine social workers' roles in addressing these disparities. This knowledge will enhance the student's understanding of how local, national, and international social policies work to maintain or ameliorate these disparities. 3 Cr. SWO 341 Social Work Methods I (B). Prerequisite: Open only to majors. Social Work Methods I is the first course in the Methods Sequence of courses offered to Social Work majors. The emphasis will be on the introduction and mastery of beginning skills, both conceptual and technical, and the development of professional judgment by exercising decision- making appropriate to specific situations. The Methods I component builds the foundation for generalist practice. 3 Cr. Fall. SWO 342 Social Work Methods II: Interactional Skills (B). Prerequisite: SWO 341. Open only to majors. Explores the face-to-face service delivery process learned through identification and assumption of client/worker roles in generalist social-work practice. Uses exercises, role playing and simulations to enhance learning. Students learn skills of helping individuals, groups and families. 3 Cr. Spring. SWO 411 Human Service Systems/Analysis (A). Prerequisite: SWO 311. Open only to majors. Covers concepts, methods and frameworks used in the analysis and change of social welfare policy; human service systems in relation to social policy; economic and political contexts in relation to social policy; and legislated social policies relevant to the social work profession. 3 Cr. Every Semester. SWO 441 Social Work Methods III (B). Prerequisites: SWO 341 and SWO 342. Open only to majors. Enables students to identify and perform various social work roles and skills at the macro level and to use change-agent skills for group and community social work (e.g., organization and group member roles). Explores social issues and social work attitudes for working with self-help groups, community groups and organizations. 3 Cr. 14 P a g e

16 SWO 451 Social Work Field Instruction I (B). Course fee. Open only to majors. Allows for the application of social-work skills and knowledge to implement tasks and strategies of an entry-level generalist social worker in a service delivery system. 5 Cr. Fall. SWO 453 Social Work Field Instruction II (B). Course fee. Prerequisites: SWO 451 and SWO 455. Open only to majors. Provides a continuation of SWO 451 with an emphasis on elaboration and refinement of skills in a service delivery system. 5 Cr. Spring. SWO 454 Social Work Field Instruction (Block) (B). Course fee. Open only to majors. Combines SWO 451 and 453 in a concentrated, four-to-five day/week block field placement. 10 Cr. Every Semester. SWO 455 Seminar in Field Instruction I (B). Open only to majors. Provides an opportunity to achieve integration of classroom learning with field experience, and allows for development and integration of responsibilities of social work's professional role. 1 Cr. Fall. SWO 456 Seminar in Field Instruction (B). Open only to majors. Provides a continuation of SWO Cr. Fall. SWO 457 Seminar in Field Instruction II (B). Prerequisites: SWO 455 and SWO 451. Open only to majors. Provides a continuation of SWO 455. Provides an opportunity to review and integrate course content from all of the program components. 1 Cr. Spring. Electives: SWO 221 Contemporary Social Work (A). Covers these major areas of study: areas of human need and forces contributing to social problems, institutions designed to meet human needs, range of service professions (concepts, techniques and organizational characteristics), and societal value systems with a national as well as international focus. Develops skills in assessment through independent learning projects and group process. Emphasizes professional behavior. 3 Cr. SWO 379 People with Disabilities: Issues, Legislation, Intervention (Elective) (A). Covers the definition, legislation, and advocacy concerning persons with physically disabling conditions. Strong emphasis on and exploration of deafness, epilepsy, blindness and cerebral palsy. Provides a historical survey of society s treatment of physically disabled people. Studies federal and state legislation affecting the civil rights of the physically disabled. 3 Cr.. SWO 475 Women's Lives (A,D,I,W). Cross-listed as WMS 475. Examines women as clients, helpers, and policy makers in the context of social forces, values, and attitudes. Explores the theoretical, developmental, political and social implications of women's changing roles. Open to selected upper-division undergraduates. 3 Cr. SWO 476 Issues of Aging in America (A,I). Examines the older person as an evolving individual; bio-psycho-social elements in the aging process; major issues related to the older person, the aging process; and the society. Compares the needs of the elderly with the service systems program and discusses methods of intervention specifically needed for the older person. 3 Cr. 15 P a g e

17 SWO 477 Perspectives on Older Adults and the Aging Family (A). Provides in-depth analysis of select issues faced by older adults and their families using a multi-systems perspective and service learning activities. Bridging theory and practice, content utilizes a case study methodology to reflect practice-based situations encountered by health providers, older adults and their families. Topics include family caregiver/care recipient experiences, loss/resiliency, advance directives/end-of-life decision-making, impact of substance abuse on aging families, and elder abuse. 3 Cr. Spring SWO 481 Social Problems in the Global Community (A,I). Explores service in attempting to resolve social problems in the global community through micro and macro activities, from feeding the poor to engaging revolution. Students will explore the influences of history, culture, and practice arenas of services for the poor and particularly vulnerable populations in a variety of nations, with a view toward improving the lives of the exploited and disadvantaged. 3 Cr. SWO 485 Practice with Sexual Minority Communities (A). Uses a gay-affirmative framework to examine practice with gender identity and sexual orientation identity. History of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities, including self-help and professional social service responses, will be discussed. Students will examine own biases and strengths within the context of gay-affirmative, social justice oriented practice. Intersectionality of racial and ethnic identity, social class identity and other cultural identities explored. 3 Cr. SWO 497 Fall Prevention and Older Adults (A). Social Work 497/597, an interprofessional elective, is designed to provide students with an opportunity to become trained as a matter of Balance coach and implement the program for a group of older adults. The training will prepare students to lead a group of 12 older adults in an 8-session program. 3 Cr. SWO 492 Topics in Social Work (A). Provides an intensive study of a specific topic with a small group of students. May be repeated for credit if topics are different. 1-6 credit hours. SWO 499 Independent Study in Social Work (A). Allows students to complete an independent project, related to either academic or field study. Enrollment by permission of and in consultation with social work faculty; and in accordance with policies and guidelines of the Office of Academic Advisement/ Transcript Evaluation. Credit hours based on contract decision. Part-time Program Increasingly, students require flexibility and individualized programming to meet their needs. Some students may be employed full-time or may be returning to college after a period away and need part-time rather than full-time course offerings. Most of the essential core requirements and many of the program s electives are offered in the evening. Evening courses are open to regularly matriculated students and to students who are interested in working toward a degree on a part-time basis. Part-time students must follow the same admissions and continuance process as all other social work majors. All students (both full and part-time) are assigned advisors, who will work with the student to construct an educational plan with appropriate course sequencing. 16 P a g e

18 Example Undergraduate Social Work Full-Time Plan of Study JUNIOR YEAR NOTE: USUALLY, JUNIORS MUST TAKE 15 CREDITS PER SEMESTER TO GRADUATE IN 2 YEARS. Check Check Off: Fall Semester Off: Spring Semester SWO 301 Human Behavior and SWO 302 Human Behavior and the Social Environment 3 the Social Environment II 3 SWO 321 Cultural Diversity 3 SWO 310 Social Work Research* 3 SWO 341 Social Work Methods I 3 SWO 342 Social Work Methods II 3 Methods** SWO 322 Social and Economic 3 SWO 311 Human Service System/ 3 Justice Social Policy Elective or Gen Ed Requirement 3 Elective or Gen Ed Requirement 3 TOTAL Fall Credits 15 TOTAL Spring Credits 15 NOTE: YOU MUST COMPLETE ALL OF YOUR 300 LEVEL COURSES WITH A C OR BETTER BEFORE TAKING FIELD OR METHODS III. SENIOR YEAR Check Check Off: Fall Semester Off: Spring Semester SWO 411** Human Service SWO 441 Social Work Methods III*** 3 Systems/Analysis 3 SWO 451 Field Instruction I 5 SWO 453 Field Instruction II 5 SWO 455 Field Seminar I 1 SWO 457 Field Seminar II 1 Elective 3 Elective 3 Elective 3 Elective 3 TOTAL Fall Credits 15 TOTAL Spring Credits 15 * Prerequisite: Complete Computer proficiency exam BEFORE registering for SWO310 ** Prerequisite: SWO 311 *** To be taken concurrently with SWO when the block placement format is selected for students or with SWO when the field placement format covers two semesters. NOTE: ALTHOUGH THE PRIMARY COURSE OF STUDY IN SOCIAL WORK IS CONCENTRATED IN THE JUNIOR AND SENIOR YEARS, THERE ARE COLLEGE-WIDE REQUIREMENTS THAT MUST BE MET. CHECK THE COLLEGE CATALOG REGARDING GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING BREADTH COMPONENTS AND CONTEMPORARY ISSUES. The length of time to complete the BSW degree is six years from the time that a student is accepted and begins taking courses in the major. 17 P a g e

19 Example Three Year Part-Time Plan of Study Check Check Off: Semester 1 (fall) Off: Semester 2 (Spring) SWO 322 Social and Economic 3 SWO 311 Human Service 3 Justice System/ Social Policy SWO 321 Cultural Diversity 3 SWO 310 Social Work Research* 3 Elective (if needed) 3 Elective (if needed) 3 TOTAL Fall Credits 9 TOTAL Spring Credits 9 Semester 3 (fall) Semester 4 (Spring) SWO 301 Human Behavior and SWO 302 Human Behavior and the Social Environment 3 the Social Environment II 3 SWO 341 Social Work Methods I 3 SWO 342 Social Work Methods II 3 Elective (if needed) 3 Elective (if needed) 3 TOTAL Fall Credits 9 TOTAL Spring Credits 9 NOTE: YOU MUST COMPLETE ALL OF YOUR 300 LEVEL COURSES WITH A C OR BETTER BEFORE TAKING FIELD OR METHODS III. Check Check Off: Semester 5 (Fall) Off: Semester 6 (spring) SWO 411*** Human Service SWO 441 Social Work Methods III** 3 Systems/Analysis 3 SWO 451 Field Instruction I 5 SWO 453 Field Instruction II 5 SWO 455 Field Seminar I 1 SWO 457 Field Seminar II 1 TOTAL Fall Credits 9 TOTAL Spring Credits 9 * Prerequisite: Complete Computer proficiency exam BEFORE registering for SWO310 ** Prerequisite: SWO 311 *** To be taken concurrently with SWO when the block placement format is selected for students or with SWO when the field placement format covers two semesters NOTE: ALTHOUGH THE PRIMARY COURSE OF STUDY IN SOCIAL WORK IS CONCENTRATED IN THE JUNIOR AND SENIOR YEARS, THERE ARE COLLEGE-WIDE REQUIREMENTS THAT MUST BE MET. CHECK THE COLLEGE CATALOG REGARDING GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING BREADTH COMPONENTS AND CONTEMPORARY ISSUES. The length of time to complete the BSW degree is six years from the time that a student is accepted and begins taking courses in the major. 18 P a g e

20 Availability during normal business hours of the agency for Field Placement Most field sites require students to complete their field placement hours during the normal business hours of the agency and while exceptions may be made to this, students may make arrangements for evening and/or weekend hours providing the following occurs: it is mutually agreed upon with the student s field instructor; it is cleared through the director of field education during the field planning process. If arrangements are made after the field practicum begins, the students faculty liaison must approve the plan. In all circumstances, field instruction supervision must be available. It is important to recognize that this is an exception and that ordinarily, students should expect that field placements require daytime responsibilities. Program Policies The Social Work Program Admission and Continuance Process Students may indicate their desire to major in social work at any time during the first two years of undergraduate study by registering with the Department of Social Work as an Intent to Major. Social Work Intents will be assigned a departmental advisor to assist them with proper course planning and career orientation as they pursue admission to the program. Students wishing to enter the major in social work must submit an application form to the Department of Social Work. Enrollment is limited. The deadline for applications is March 15 for fall semester entry. Students may be required to take classes on the main campus and at the MetroCenter in Rochester, NY depending on seat availability. Students seeking acceptance to the major must meet the following criteria at time of application: Cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or above. Demonstration of suitability and capacity to enter the profession of social work. Completion of a minimum of 54 credits, or an AA, AS or AAS. Completion of the prerequisite courses (see below) Admission is competitive. A grade point average higher than 2.5 may be required to gain acceptance into the program depending on the number of applicants. Delta College Program students must complete 34 credits and meet all other criteria. (The Delta College curriculum meets the program s requirement of SOC 100.) Applicants must demonstrate: Cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or above. (Minimum grade point averages necessary for acceptance into the program may be higher depending on the number of applicants.) Initial demonstration of suitability and capacity to enter the profession of social work. Completion of the following prerequisite courses before entering the Social Work major (by August preceding their fall entrance into the program.) 19 P a g e

21 SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology PSH 110 Principles of Psychology BIO 281 Elements of Human Biology or BIO 221 Survey of Anatomy and Physiology or BIO 285 Biology of Aging SOC 200 Social Statistics or MTH 243 Elementary Statistics or PSH 202 Introductory Statistics Transfer students must consult with the undergraduate admissions coordinator or the undergraduate program chairperson regarding equivalency of courses taken at other institutions. Completion of a minimum of 54 credits, or an associate s degree from a community college or four year college or university. Students will be notified in writing regarding acceptance to the undergraduate program. A letter of acceptance qualifies the applicant to register for appropriate courses at Brockport. Students, whose request for admission is denied, may appeal the decision. The Grievance/Appeal Procedure is in the Student Handbook; a copy will be sent upon request. All new social work majors will be assigned an academic advisor. Students should meet with their advisors the first month after admission to the program. Please note that the undergraduate program does not give academic credit for life experience or previous work experience. Such experience cannot be substituted for the field practicum or other courses required for the social work major. Social work major courses, or their equivalents, must be completed at The College at Brockport or at a CSWE-accredited BSW program at a four year college. No opportunity to test out of required social work courses is permitted. Second degree majors are accepted into the undergraduate program using a second degree contract completed between the student, the undergraduate program, and the Admissions Office. Second degree majors must also complete the application for the undergraduate program. The GPA for the second degree can be calculated separately from the first degree when necessary. STANDARDS FOR EVALUATING ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE The following standards, policies and procedures apply to students enrolled in the undergraduate social work program. These standards are linked to students abilities to become effective generalist social work professionals and are provided so that students and faculty can be clear about expectations and procedures to address academic performance concerns. The ultimate goal of these policies is to help students have a successful experience. Faculty and field instructors who teach and supervise students, will assess student academic performance and apply their professional judgment to determine if standards are being met during a student s educational career. Professional judgment is the capacity to assess a situation by applying the values and knowledge of the social work profession, combined with a professional s own experience and practice wisdom. It also represents the application of knowledge, values, and skills to making decisions in a helping process. 20 P a g e

22 All social work students will be provided with and expected to read the Standards for Evaluating Academic Performance, Policies and Procedures and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics (1999) i in the Student Handbook. Students will be asked to sign an acknowledgment that they have read, are aware of the contents of, and will abide by, the documents. The signed form will be kept in the student s active file. All relevant federal, state, and local laws, as well as the institutional policies of the College at Brockport, are applicable to these standards. The undergraduate social work program evaluates academic performance in four general areas: 1) basic abilities to acquire professional skills; 2) mental and emotional abilities; 3) professional performance skills and 4) scholastic performance. Both professional behavior and scholastic performance comprise academic standards. 1. Basic Abilities Necessary to Acquire Professional Skills 1.1 Communication: Demonstrates sufficient written and oral skills to comprehend information and communicate ideas and feelings. Written: Writes clearly, uses correct grammar and spelling, and applies appropriate writing style, including American Psychological Association (APA) referencing, appropriate source citation, and documentation. Demonstrates sufficient skills in written English to understand content presented in the program and to complete adequately all written assignments, as specified by faculty. Oral: Communicates effectively and sensitively with other students, faculty, staff, clients, and professionals. Expresses ideas and feelings clearly and demonstrates a willingness and an ability to listen to others. Demonstrates sufficient skills in spoken English to understand content presented in the Program, to complete adequately all oral assignments (with or without accommodations), and to meet the objectives of field placement experiences, as specified by faculty. 1.2 Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the interpersonal skills needed to relate effectively with other students, faculty, staff, clients, and professionals and to fulfill the ethical obligations of the profession. These include compassion, empathy, altruism, integrity, and demonstration of respect for and consideration of others. Takes appropriate responsibility for own actions and considers the impact of these actions on others. 1.3 Cognitive Skills: Exhibits sufficient knowledge of social work and clarity of thinking to process information and apply it to appropriate situations in classroom and field. Demonstrates grounding in relevant social, behavioral and biological science, knowledge, and research--including knowledge and skills in relationship building, data gathering, assessment, intervention, and evaluation of practice. Exhibits ability to conceptualize and integrate knowledge and apply that knowledge to professional practice. 1.4 Physical Skills: Exhibits sufficient motor and sensory abilities to attend and participate in class and practicum placement, with or without accommodations. (See section on Accommodations for Disabilities for clarification). 2. Emotional and Mental Abilities necessary for performance in the program and professional practice 21 P a g e